Homecrest Outdoor Living started as the offspring of a retail furniture shop in Wadena, MN, but has since expanded to an international market. Beginning in the year 1953, the Homecrest story is one of passion and innovation. Founders Mert Bottemiller and Al Engelmann set out to design a better ottoman than their vendors could provide, and soon after began manufacturing a growing line of indoor and
outdoor furniture. Bottemiller’s patented swivel rocker mechanism provided a foundation for Homecrest’s outdoor furniture line, which took off in the 1960s. Distribution of Homecrest’s products extended nationwide as Americans increasingly enjoyed backyard dining, entertaining, and recreation. This soaring demand for comfortable, high-quality outdoor furniture led Homecrest to expand into new international markets and contract for resorts, restaurants, healthcare, and other commercial venues. Homecrest’s furniture line continued to grow, making room for innovative new collections and low-maintenance products that are all made in the USA. Though lower priced import products from new competitors in the 1990s created numerous business challenges for Homecrest, the brand chose to evolve rather than succumb. New leadership and manufacturing processes helped Homecrest refocus, placing an emphasis on marketing and trend-driven design. New collections were built with the same durability and comfort as previous collections, but also featured the style and sophistication required by residential and commercial spaces alike. The latest Homecrest collections continue to emphasize current trends, while keeping the same innovative quality that made it popular in the first place.
